Why the Midwest Is Called That: A Historical Perspective
The term Midwest has its roots deep in the history of the United States, reflecting the nation's early settlements and development. This article explores the origin of the name, its historical significance, and how it remains relevant to this day.
Historical Foundations
When the United States was first being settled and developed, the region we now know as the Midwest was considered the western frontier. During the early days of American expansion, settlers traveled westward from the original thirteen colonies along the East Coast, pushing further and further into the interior of the continent. At this time, the westernmost part of the country was the area that we now refer to as the Midwest.
The Naming Process
The name "Midwest" became recognized as a region distinct from the "West" and the "East." As the country continued to expand and develop, the term came into use to describe the area in the central part of the continent. This region was indeed not directly west of the eastern US, but due to its central location, it retained its designation as the Midwest.
The Midwest as the Middle of the Country
The term "Midwest" literally translates to the middle of the way to the West Coast. If we consider the original thirteen colonies as the starting point, the Midwest represents the midpoint between the East Coast and the West Coast. This geographical middleness is integral to the name's origins and persistence.
The Evolution of the Term
As the United States expanded westward, the name "Midwest" started to encompass more territory. During the 19th century, when the Northwest Territory (including present-day Michigan, Minnesota, the Dakotas, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Nebraska, Missouri, and Kansas) was organized, the term came into common usage. This region was further solidified as the Midwest when the Louisiana Purchase, which occurred in 1803, added significant land to the United States, including much of the territory that is now the Midwest.
Geographical and Historical Boundaries
The term Midwest is broad and includes states that are east of the Mississippi River and west of the Allegheny Mountains. This includes areas that are geographically and geologically diverse, reflecting the complexities of the region's historical development.
The Mid- vs. Mid-East Confusion
The name Midwest can sometimes be conflated with the term "Middle East," which has a distinct historical and geographical meaning. The Middle East, as a term, refers to a region that includes countries such as Turkey, Egypt, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of Europe and Africa. This term is not related to the American Midwest, despite any outward similarities.
The Importance of Context in Naming
The naming of regions is often influenced by the historical and cultural context in which they were developed. The Midwest's name reflects the rapid westward expansion of the United States in the 19th century. As states joined the Union, the term Midwest became increasingly recognized as a distinct and valuable identifier of a particular region of the country.
Conclusion
The term "Midwest" remains a poignant reminder of the historical expansion and development of the United States. While it may seem outdated or misleading in modern times, it serves as a powerful symbol of the country's dynamic and evolving identity. The Midwest's central location and its historical significance continue to define it as a unique and important region, distinct from the East and the West, but still central to the American experience.
References and Further Reading
For further exploration, consider reading about the Westward Expansion, the Louisiana Purchase, and the National Geographic's explanation of the Midwest region.